Automatic tool-exchanging device

Abstract

An automatic tool-exchanging device can be set on a robot for exchanging tools. It mainly comprises an upper and lower assemblies, and an engaging mechanism. The engaging mechanism includes a cam, which is to be driven with a double-acting pneumatic cylinder assembly. When the double-acting pneumatic cylinder is turned on, the upper and lower assemblies will be engaged together and generate a self-lock effect for safety; when the double-acting pneumatic cylinder is turned off, the two assemblies will be disengaged from each other.

We claim: 
     
       1. An upper assembly having a first surface with an attachment plate fixable to an appendage of a robot and an opposing second surface, said second surface having: a plurality of positioning pins extending therefrom;   an upper electrical connector having a plurality of spring contact probes disposed therein;   an engagement assembly having a first end fixed to said second surface of said upper assembly;   a cam rotatably disposed about a first pin on a second end of said engagement assembly;   a double acting pneumatic cylinder;   a reciprocating yoke having a first end slidable on a second pin fixed in said cam and a second end connected to said pneumatic cylinder whereby said cam rotates about an axis of said first pin in response to said reciprocating yoke under the action of said double acting pneumatic cylinder;   a lower assembly having a first surface with a tool plate fixable to a tool and an opposing second surface engageable with said upper assembly, said second surface having: a plurality of receptacles for receiving said positioning pins upon engagement of said upper assembly with said lower assembly;   a lower electrical connector having a plurality of spring contact proble receptacles for receiving said spring contact probes of said upper connector;   an engagement receptacle for receiving said engagement assembly, said cam, and said reciprocating yoke upon engagement of said upper assembly with said lower assembly;   a rotary shaft pin disposed within said engagement receptacle for engagement by said cam upon engagement of said upper assembly with said lower assembly and upon rotation of said cam in response to said reciprocating yoke under the action of said double-acting pneumatic cylinder, whereby said cam engages and disengages said rotary shaft pin in response to said reciprocating yoke under the action of said double-acting pneumatic cylinder to secure and release said upper assembly to said lower assembly, respectively.